VILLAGE shopkeepers in Barnt Green and Alvechurch are suffering at the hands of shoplifting ‘gangs’ who are targeting both large and independent retailers.
Recent parish council meetings in both villages have been dominated by the problem, with traders suffering the effects of a 60 per cent increase in shoplifting incidents across the district, compared to last year.
Councillors have even heard of thieves stealing from charity shops in Barnt Green.
Bromsgrove District Councillor Charlie Hotham feels the area needs a ‘more active response’ from police when reports of shoplifting are submitted, while a lack of deterrence for thieves means they operate with little fear of reprisals.
Coun Hotham told the Standard: “Shopkeepers feel the ‘gangs’ are coming into the town to target larger supermarkets and are helping themselves to items in smaller shops along the way.
“I’m hoping for a more proactive response from police, which could create a deterrence against shoplifiting.”
West Mercia Police have been present at previous meetings to discuss the issues, with further meetings planned to discuss the next steps in supporting shopkeepers.
The problem is possibly exacerbated by ‘no challenge’ policies employed by large supermarket retailers, in order to protect their staff from confrontation or violence, which can be seen by thieves as a free pass to steal.
Police Sergeant Suki Gosal of the Bromsgrove Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “We recognise there has been an increase in shoplifting locally.
“However, repeat victims have been identified and the Safer Neighbourhood Teams are concentrating efforts on crime prevention working with stores to find ways to reduce offending, through better placement of hot products, better CCTV, potential security improvements or Shopwatch bans.
“We have also increased patrols and visibility in hotspot areas. A joint meeting has been arranged with Barnt Green shop owners, local councillors, Rural and Business Officer and SNT representatives.
“West Mercia Police will continue to take a robust approach with any offenders identified.”
